Effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on obesity and diabetes

Abstract

The increasing incidence of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global problem. Although the obesity epidemic is mostly associated with a lack of physical activity and diet, several chemicals have been demonstrated to have a potential role in its pathophysiological mechanisms. An accumulating volume of evidence indicates that a subclass of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can impair hormonally regulated metabolic processes, particularly in the case of exposure early in life when the defense mechanisms of the human body are yet to be fully developed. These chemicals are called "obesogenic EDCs" and might cause some people to gain weight despite their attempts to increase physical activity and limit calorie intake. Similarly, background exposure to some environmental EDCs has been associated with diabetes and impaired glucose metabolism. Certain widespread EDCs, including pesticides, dioxins, and bisphenol A, in animal models may change beta function and insulin resistance. These EDCs, which may accumulate in adipose tissue and cause a pro-inflammatory response, can also be found at measurable levels in human blood and can either imitate or block some hormonal reactions. In this review, we evaluate EDCs in relation to obesity and T2DM in light of the current literature.